Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’

Description

Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ is a stunning, evergreen shrub known for its vibrant yellow foliage and fragrant white flowers. Perfect for adding a pop of colour to gardens, borders, or containers, this hardy plant thrives in a variety of conditions. Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ flourishes in your garden throughout the seasons.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ is in the spring when the soil has warmed. This gives the plant time to establish strong roots before the growing season begins. Spring planting ensures the plant has ample opportunity to settle in and grow.
• Autumn: If you prefer to plant in autumn, early autumn is the best time to do so. Planting in autumn allows Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ to establish itself before the cold months, resulting in vigorous growth when spring arrives.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. For the best results, choose a spot where the plant can receive at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily. The more sunlight it receives, the more vibrant its yellow foliage will be.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil for Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’. The plant does not like waterlogged conditions, so it’s essential to select a location with good drainage. Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil will help improve fertility and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: When planting Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’, dig a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. This gives the roots plenty of room to spread and establish.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix in compost or organic material to enrich the soil. This will help create a fertile environment that encourages strong growth.
3. Planting: Place the root ball of Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil and firm it gently to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and encourage root establishment. Make sure the area drains well to avoid any issues with waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ is relatively drought-tolerant. Water during dry spells, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Be cautious not to overwater, as too much moisture can lead to root rot.
• Dormant Season: During the dormant months, reduce watering. The plant needs minimal moisture in this period, so only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: In early spring, apply a balanced fertiliser to give Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ a strong start to the growing season. This will support healthy new growth and vibrant flowers.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can help encourage continuous growth and ensure the shrub remains vigorous throughout the blooming period.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove any spent flowers regularly to maintain the plant’s tidy appearance and promote new growth. While Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ doesn’t require frequent deadheading, it helps prolong the blooming season.
• Autumn Pruning: After the last flowers have faded in autumn, you can trim back any dead or damaged stems. This helps prepare the plant for the winter months and encourages healthier growth in the following spring.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ in spring to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulch like bark chips or compost is ideal.
• Winter: In colder months, consider adding a thicker layer of mulch to protect the roots from frost damage and ensure the plant survives the winter months.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ has a naturally compact and bushy growth habit, so staking is generally not necessary. However, if the plant is in a particularly windy spot, staking may be helpful to protect it from wind damage.

Final Tips

Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ is a low-maintenance and hardy shrub that adds year-round beauty to any garden. With its fragrant white flowers in spring and vibrant yellow foliage throughout the year, this plant is a wonderful addition to any outdoor space. By following these care guidelines, your Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ will thrive and provide an attractive focal point in your garden season after season.

 

RHS Details

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